March 23, 2011

Channellock has just released an 8" version of their High Leverage Linesman Pliers. We reviewed their 10" set back in mid-September. At the time, we spent the better part of an afternoon making asses out of ourselves trying to destroy the things (we couldn't), so this time, our reviewing process has been much simpler.

We've spent a few days with the tool, doing some light electrical work as well as some general carpentry (where a nice set of pliers always comes in handy). This little work-out, coupled with the continued glory of the 10" pliers, which have now established themselves a permanent place in the tool bag, leads us to a pretty easy conclusion...these things are great.

They really are. Cutting fish tape is a snap and, according to Channellock, this is in part due to the way they've constructed the cutting jaws. What they've done is created something they call a "knife and anvil," which means that one jaw comes to a point and the other a little flattened edge. This way, the point always hits the edge and severs the fish tape. Other brands use two cutting teeth which, over time, can come out of alignment and start bypassing one another, making for a tough cut, if even cutting at all.

As far as durability goes, this newer model is identical to the 10", so in other words, it's truly indestructible. This is a really great tool and one that you're going to have forever, as long as you don't lose it.

Also, Channellock, with apparent deep insight to our regular weekend activities, also sent us one of their BOCB Bottle Openers. Both Friday and Saturday night we tested the item rigorously. First with long necks, then shorties, then long necks again, then to double check some figures, we went back to the shorties. After that, we felt it was necessary to once again test out the long necks, and after that we're not sure what happened. The bottle opener works though.

Jennie McBride: I have been trying to find a Scribe holder for read moreTomonthebeach: The Rigid is powerful and large, but even the most read moreJim Landman: Great info Doug, this article led me to The Sweet read morebwhomeimprovements: I have a DEMO-DEK tool. It wasn't cheap but it read moreTool Snob: Yeah, it's pretty bright. I'm not sure how much light read more